Fury in UK’s most expensive seaside town over new charges and tourism fears

There has been a furious reaction in a UK seaside town named the most expensive, with locals fearing new charges will “kill tourism“.

Due to a new two-tier parking system introduced by the council, tourists visiting Salcombe, South Devon, will have to pay higher parking fees than locals.

South Hams Council believes this surge in parking fees – the first hike since April 2021 – will bolster its coffers. Residents will be eligible for a £5 permit that grants them parking discounts.

Still, the move hasn’t come without criticism. Town councils and business factions have cautioned that higher rates and added costs for visitors could discourage tourists from visiting the area.

This comes a year after Salcombe was named the UK’s most expensive seaside town, with an average house price of more than £1.2 million in 2022, according to Halifax

Cllr Nicky Hopwood didn’t shy away from labelling the initiative a ‘tourism tax’. In response, council leader Julian Brazil countered: “They have a tourism tax on the continent, but people still go there!” 

Cllr Hopwood expressed concerns over the plan’s consequences for local businesses and said the idea that residents should pay even five pounds for a discount is ‘nonsensical’.

Jenni Richardson told DevonLive: “Charge tourists but only those from overseas like they do when you go to Spain. Don’t charge the British for using facilities in their own countries. 

“Parking is so expensive already. Many people will boycott the area anyway, as parking is getting ridiculous in Devon. I think that they need to look elsewhere for money.”

Jayne Hyde agreed, saying: “This will kill tourism and seaside towns rely on holidaymakers!”

Fellow resident Maureen Crook added: “I don’t know why this is happening. It’s wrong. High parking charges, town centre a disgrace, it’s no wonder we are losing loyal visitors.”

But not all are against the change. Local Debbie Davis said: “Everyone who visits a country in Europe pays a tourist tax for staying, even if you’re from that country. We had to charge everyone who stayed at our Chambre d’hote in France, even the French. 

“That’s why so many events are free, fêtes, festivals, music festivals, fireworks, carnivals etc are all paid for by that fee. So the locals get to enjoy something that is free, paid for by the tourists.”

Stephen Cowdell said: “If it’s done correctly, it won’t be an issue. In France there is a tourist tax but it is a very low percentage.

“When I camp over there, I pay around €1.50 per night, and that appears to be sensible as long as the local county gets that money and it’s not under the control of central government.”